Queens Source of Income Protections & Filing

Housing and Building Standards New York 3 Minutes Read · published February 04, 2026 Flag of New York

In Queens, New York tenants and applicants are protected from discrimination based on lawful source of income under New York City law. This guide explains where source-of-income protections apply, who enforces them, how to file a complaint, typical penalties and enforcement processes, and practical steps for landlords and renters in Queens. Read each section for filing instructions, basic timelines, and agency contacts to report suspected violations or request relief.

Penalties & Enforcement

Source-of-income discrimination in New York City is enforced primarily by the New York City Commission on Human Rights (the Commission). Remedies can include civil penalties, damages, and orders to cease discriminatory practices; specific fine amounts and escalation steps are not specified on the cited page. Enforcement can proceed through investigation, conciliation, or administrative hearing.

File promptly after an incident to preserve remedies.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences — not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: cease-and-desist orders, injunctive relief, mandated policy changes, and damages awards may be ordered.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathway: New York City Commission on Human Rights - file an online complaint or contact the Commission for intake and investigation via NYC Commission on Human Rights[1].
  • Appeals and review: procedures for administrative decisions and civil review are handled per Commission rules; specific appeal time limits are not specified on the cited page.

Applications & Forms

To start a complaint, use the Commission's complaint intake process and form (online intake or paper options are described by the Commission). For housing-benefit documentation (for example, Section 8 or other vouchers) provide the program-issued documentation when requested by a housing provider or investigator. If no form is required, the Commission accepts an intake complaint describing the incident.

Common Violations

  • Refusing to rent to applicants who use housing vouchers or subsidies.
  • Listing advertisements or policies that exclude tenants receiving lawful income sources.
  • Imposing different terms or conditions based on source of income.
Save all communications and listings that show discriminatory statements or rules.

How to Report and Evidence

Collect written communications, advertisements, lease offers, screenshots, and witness statements. Submit these with your complaint to speed investigation. The Commission may request originals and additional documentation during intake or investigation.

Applications & Forms

The Commission provides an online complaint intake form and options for in-person or mail submission; if a housing agency is involved, keep copies of voucher or subsidy documentation. Specific fee requirements for filing a discrimination complaint are not specified on the cited page.

FAQ

Who is protected by source-of-income rules in Queens?
Individuals using lawful forms of income such as housing vouchers, public assistance, or other lawful income sources are protected under New York City human rights law.
How long do I have to file a complaint?
Time limits vary by procedure; consult the Commission promptly and file as soon as possible to preserve remedies.
Can a landlord require extra fees for voucher holders?
Charging extra fees or different terms based solely on source of income may be discriminatory; consult the Commission for guidance.

How-To

  1. Document the incident: save messages, screenshots, ads, and any lease offers.
  2. Complete the Commission's complaint intake form online or by mail with your evidence.
  3. Cooperate with the Commission's intake investigator and provide requested documents and witness contact information.
  4. Pursue conciliation or hearing options as advised by the Commission; seek legal counsel if considering civil court action.

Key Takeaways

  • Source-of-income discrimination is prohibited under New York City human rights law and applies in Queens.
  • File promptly with the NYC Commission on Human Rights and keep documentary evidence.

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